[That flinch is so fast, it's almost TOO fast and Rocky retracts his hand suddenly. Fearing that he's somehow causing more and more offense, his smile fades to a fraction of its former radiance and an apologetic expression overtakes his artificial features.

But there's more than just Peter's reactions that Rocky doesn't understand. Why did the teen keep implying that machines could do whatever they wanted here without consequence? And what did he mean by saying he knows what it's like not being human when he's clearly a human? Rocky's processor is working to try and puzzle together data in a way that makes sense, but there are just too many missing pieces and he suspects Peter's discomfort could turn to hostility if further pressed.]

Sorry about that. I didn't mean to startle you. [He tries, this time with hands kept to himself.] I don't know what experiences you might've had on this ship but I'm going to follow the same rules everybody else does. You might not trust me and that's okay—a lot of humans don't—but I mean you no harm. Honest! I have no reason whatsoever to want to hurt you.

In fact, it's just the opposite! [His smile starts to return but with some hesitance.] I'd much rather be friends! ...Or, uh, friendly acquaintances if you prefer?